WATCH: LL Cool J talks Grammys on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live'

2 years ago

Rapper and Grammy Awards host LL Cool J is remaining tight-lipped about what Sunday's awards ceremony holds. On Monday's episode of "Jimmy Kimmel Live," LL wouldn't confirm or deny recent reports about which performers will take the stage.

Going into his third year hosting the Grammys, the hip-hop veteran says preparing for the gig hasn't gotten any easier. LL explains that every year both the artists and the audience are different, making it impossible to get comfortable in the hosting role.

Nevertheless, he says he simply tries to be himself on stage and have fun. As for the artists nominated for awards at this year's ceremony, LL says he's especially excited for the new artists because he knows what it means to be publicly recognized for the first time. The 56th Annual Grammy Awards air Sunday at 8:00 p.m. Eastern on CBS.

LL Cool J also reflected on his 30 year career in hip-hop. He looked back on the days when he was creating records in his mother's basement and also talked about playing a key role in the formation of Def Jam Recordings. One memorable moment was when he first met Def Jam co-founder Rick Rubin and was shocked to find out that he was white.

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